Srinagar- Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday called for a collective effort to reimagine Jammu and Kashmir as a vibrant art hub, saying artists and writers have a crucial role in shaping the cultural future of the Union Territory.
Addressing the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Kesar Art Circle at Kala Kendra, Jammu, the Lieutenant Governor said that Jammu and Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural roots must serve as the foundation for its artistic renaissance. He stressed that preservation of sacred heritage was essential to building a creative and progressive future.
“From spiritual and cultural roots to new creative horizons, it is our collective responsibility to reimagine Jammu and Kashmir as an art hub,” Sinha said, expressing hope that painters and writers would actively contribute to strengthening the artistic ecosystem of the region.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated noted painter Bhushan Kesar, founder of the Kesar Art Circle, and lauded his lifelong contribution to nurturing and mentoring thousands of artists. He said many of Kesar’s students had achieved global recognition, marking significant milestones under his guidance.
Highlighting the broader role of art in society, the Lieutenant Governor described artists, thinkers, painters and sculptors as the conscience of society, noting that their work inspires public participation in democracy and contributes to the nation’s development journey.
He observed that art forms such as painting and sculpture are not merely sources of entertainment but powerful forces that influence how societies think, feel and progress. Throughout human civilization, he said, art has given expression to emotions beyond language, fostering empathy and social cohesion.
Calling upon the youth to harness the power of art for positive change, Sinha said art acts as both a mirror and a guide for society. He urged young people to embrace artistic expression as a means to preserve cultural identity while contributing meaningfully to the vision of a developed India.
During the event, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated a painting exhibition and felicitated several artists for their contributions.
Among those present were Padma Shri Dr S P Varma, Principal Secretary Culture Brij Mohan Sharma, Regional Director IGNCA Shruti Awasthi, Director Archives K K Sidha, Secretary JKAACL Harvinder Kour, Secretary Kala Kendra Jammu Javaid Rahi, along with senior officials, prominent artists and citizens from different walks of life.
